Mom And Daughter Hammock
  • On Feb 3, 2023
    Kali from MO Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    We are sailing on the Disney magic in January 2024. We are going to progreso and Cozumel. First time cruisers/out of country. I think Should do a port adventure but underwhelmed with options. Are you any you recommend? Do we have to do one? I want a beach

    Welcome to planDisney, Kali!   
     
    Thanks for bringing your great questions our way in preparation for your very first cruise! I’m sailing aboard the Disney Magic on your itinerary in April, and I’m happy to share my thoughts and research with you.
     
    First, please don’t feel any pressure to book Port Adventures for every port. As a first-time cruiser, I think it would be wonderful to have the logistics taken care of by Disney and know you’re in good hands with an experienced, reputable tour operator for at least one of your ports of call. 
     
    For your first cruise, you may reserve Port Adventures 75 days in advance of your sail date. You still have plenty of time to continue your research and additional options may become available before your sailing next year. Here are the current Port Adventures for Cozumel and Progreso, Mexico
     
    My family really enjoyed the Fury Catamaran Sail Snorkel and Beach Party (CZ12) on a previous cruise to Cozumel. The combination of a relaxing catamaran sail, open water snorkeling, and a fun beach experience was just right for us. This time we’re planning on the Dune Buggy and Beach Snorkel Combo (CZ23) in Cozumel and trying our hand at local flavors with the Holy Guacamole, Salsa and Margaritas Beach Cooking (PGO24) in Progreso. Both Port Adventures will allow us some beach time in the tropical turquoise waters with a sense of adventure and activities that we wouldn’t do at home. 
     
    I’d love to give you my personal review and more advice after my upcoming cruise, Kali! Feel free to send a question directly to me to check in again after mid-April and I will share my specific experience on this itinerary with you. I’m sure we’ll have lots more to talk about together!
     
    You may explore a port of call without a Port Adventure, but please know this decision comes with some risks. Most importantly, you are responsible for returning to the ship in advance of the critical all-aboard time for that port. I do understand wanting to explore a beach on your own, so here are my top tips when making that decision: 

    • Explore a map of the areas near both Cozumel and Progreso to find beaches or all-inclusive resorts near the port. Cozumel is an island, and the cruise ship pier is to the west facing Yucatan. I strongly advise that you stay on the island, as crossing to the mainland requires a ferry in both directions and adds a lot of risk and stress to your day. Progreso boasts the world’s longest pier at four miles long, so you’ll need transportation to enjoy any beach. 
    • Read trusted online experiences and reviews. Be sure to plan a visit to a reputable beach or all-inclusive resort that may offer a day pass rather than hailing a taxi and getting local guidance towards an unresearched destination.
    • Stay current on updated Travel Advisories posted by the U.S. Department of State. This is official guidance for U.S. Citizens traveling on their own in a foreign country, based on current events.

    I hope to “sea” you again real soon so we can discuss these ports in more detail and share other fun tips to make the most of your magical cruise!

    Happy planning,  
    Amy

thumbnail image for Amy

Meet the Panelist: Amy, Virginia

Hi friends! I'm Amy, a lifelong Disney dreamer from horse-and-wine country, Virginia. My family of three is BIG on fun and treasures every adventure together. We've been making memories at the Walt Disney World Resort and aboard Disney Cruise Line since my son was a toddler; we love our family traditions balanced with "what's new" each visit. I have a passion for Disney details, a love of digital tools, and an eye for practical planning. I can't wait to help you make the MOST of your magical vacation! Learn More About Amy

Related Video

  • thumbnail image for Disney Cruise Line First Timer Tips | planDisney Podcast – Season 2 Episode 1

Didn't find what you were looking for? Click the Ask a Question button to open the Ask a Question dialogue box. If you are not logged in a dialogue box will appear to signin in order to ask a question.

To submit your question, please log in now if you have not already done so.

Ask a QuestionOpens the Ask a Question dialog box.
x

Update Browser

For a better experience browsing this website, please download an updated version of Internet Explorer.


Or you can continue browsing without updating.